BED BUGS

by Michael F. Potter, Extension Entomologist

University of Kentucky College of Agriculture

There are several species of bed bugs, all of which are parasites of warm-blooded animals. The common bed bug, whose preferred host is humans, is rarely encountered, presumably because of improvements in sanitation. Related species, such as the bat bug and bird bug, prefer to feed on bats, birds, and other wild hosts, but will also feed on humans if the opportunity arises or the preferred host dies or leaves the roost.

Adult bed bugs are about 1/4-inch long and reddish-brown, with oval, flattened bodies. Bed bugs prefer to hide in cracks and crevices during the daytime and come out to feed on the host's blood at night, usually while the host is sleeping.

University of Kentucky Entomology

Infestations are usually detected by the welts and irritation caused by the bites, and the fecal smears and blood spots visible on pillowcases, sheets and mattresses. Heavy infestations of bed bugs are also accompanied by a distinct odor. Bed bugs are not normally implicated in the transmission of diseases. Their medical significance is usually limited to itching and inflammation from their bites.

USDA Insect and Plant Disease Slide Set

The key to controlling bed, bird and bat bugs is to locate and treat all cracks and crevices where the bugs may be hiding. Typical hiding places are in the tufts, folds and seams of mattresses, and cracks in the box spring and bed frame. Heavier infestations often spread to behind baseboards, window, and door casings, behind pictures, electrical switch plates, and loose wallpaper, in the pleats of drapes, and the upholstery of furniture.

When inspecting for bed bugs, look for the insects themselves as well as the telltale fecal and blood spots indicating that a hiding place is nearby. Residual insecticides (sprays or dusts) used to control cockroaches and ants are usually effective, but always consult the label for specific instructions. Bed linens (sheets and pillowcases) should never be treated with insecticides and mattresses should be treated only around seams, tufts, and buttons where the bugs are likely to be hiding.

Following thorough inspection/treatment of living areas, efforts should be made to locate and eliminate potential wild animal sources of infestation. These may include birds, bats, or squirrels in the attic, or possibly mice or rats. If bat bugs or bird bugs are found in these areas, residual and non-residual insecticides should be applied, and the wild hosts excluded. In order to eradicate a bed bug infestation, it may be prudent to enlist the services of a professional pest control company.

CAUTION! Pesticide recommendations in this publication are registered for use in Kentucky, USA ONLY! The use of some products may not be legal in your state or country. Please check with your local county agent or regulatory official before using any pesticide mentioned in this publication.

Of course, ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS FOR SAFE USE OF ANY PESTICIDE!

Revised: 10/96